1.1 Scope. 1.1.1* This standard shall identify and establish levels of functional capability for conducting operations at technical search and rescue incidents while minimizing threats to rescuers. A.1.1.1 This standard was developed to define levels of preparation and operational capability that should be achieved by any authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) that has responsibility for technical rescue operations. These defined levels provide an outline of a system used to manage an incident efficiently and effectively, to maximize personnel safety, and to bring about the successful rescue of victims and the eventual termination of the event. The system should be followed to increase the capabilities of the AHJ to deal successfully with even the most complex incident. The system progresses from the simple basic awareness level to the operations level, and, finally, to the technician level. It should be understood that, as the system expands, the requirements for training, operational skills, management ability, and types and amounts of equipment also expand. 1.1.2* The requirements of this standard shall apply to organizations that provide response to technical search and rescue incidents, including those not regulated by governmental mandates. A.1.1.2 Organizations providing such rescue, fire suppression, and emergency services can include fire departments, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and utility, public works, and rescue organizations. 1.1.3* It is not the intent of this document to be applied to individuals and their associated skills and/or qualifications. A.1.1.3 While organizations can meet the requirements of this standard, individuals and their skills and qualifications are outside of the scope of this document. NFPA1006, Standard for Technical Rescuer Professional Qualifications, addresses rescue technician professional qualifications.

This standard identifies and establishes levels of functional capability for efficiently and effectively conducting operations at technical search and rescue incidents while minimizing threats to rescuers. It is intended to help the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) assess a technical search and rescue hazard within the response area, identify the level of operational capability, and establish operational criteria.
Official document scope

What does NFPA 1670 address?

Provisions define levels of preparation and operational capability and provide an outline of a system that progresses from the simple basic awareness level to the operations level, and, finally, to the technician level. In addition to rope rescue, types of search and rescue operations covered include structural collapse, confined space, vehicle, water, wilderness, trench and excavation, machinery, cave, mine and tunnel, helicopter, tower, and animal rescue.